In the midst of celebrating Christmas with V’s family, I couldn’t help thinking about her— wondering how she felt giving and getting presents, when the only gift she really wants is something no one can give her.
I know what was in her heart on Christmas; and will be in her heart every day from now on—although I’ve only known her for less than a week. I’m not naming her because I haven’t asked her —-she is the friend of a friend who suggested that we connect. We haven’t met in person, only through emails and phone calls–but already we’ve discovered things we have in common— both of us were 44 and mothers of 7-year- old sons when we were tapped to join the same sorority.
We never signed up for this, of course. No one does, although our sorority’s membership numbers in the millions, and grows every day. In fact, I already introduced my new sorority sister to another member of her pledge class, since it helps to go through initiation with someone else.
Our sorority has no Greek letters, no name, no parties. Lifetime membership is automatic, and initiation is immediate— the instant you hear 4 words which are the secret password: you have breast cancer.
As a member for 14 years, technically I’ve reached emeritus status. Though they think I’m teaching them, the truth is that my new sorority sister, and all the new members, always teach me—about the strength and inspiration found in the human spirit.
You really pulled me in on this one. I wasn’t expecting what you said at the end. We all need to be open in any interaction. It is not what we can take, but what we can give. Often, we are surprised with the unexpected gifts that we receive in return.
Lynn, thanks so much for your comment and I agree this is one of life’s most important lessons—I think it’s really true that the more we give, the more we get.
so sad to join this sorority. so grateful that there are people like you in the world. thanks for this. XO
Thank you Christine, for inspiring me to write it .
Sad to say since I wrote this, I have another friend who just joined.